Interferon Beta 1A Medication Information

Get detailed information on Interferon Beta 1A, including pronunciation, uses, dosage guidelines, indications, and instructions on how and when to take it and when to avoid it.

The updated prescription information on Interferon Beta 1A provides an overview of possible side effects, precautions, warnings, and storage tips.

You'll also find brand names used in india and internationally, along with pricing details. For further clarification, consult your healthcare provider.

Generic Name : Interferon Beta 1A

Pronunciation : in ter FEAR on BAY ta

ICD Code : Y43.3 Therapeutic Classification : Chemotherapy

Trade Names/Brand Names of Interferon Beta 1A

International :

Avonex, Avonex Prefilled Syringe, Rebif

Why is Interferon Beta 1A Prescribed? (Indications)

This medication is an immunomodulator, prescribed for multiple sclerosis.

When should Interferon Beta 1A not be taken? (Contraindications)

Hypersensitivity.

What is the dosage of Interferon Beta 1A?

Usual Adult Dose for Multiple Sclerosis: Adult- Start at 8.8 mcg subcutaneously three times per week for 2 weeks, then give 22 mcg subcutaneously three times per week for 2 weeks, on week 5 start the recommended daily dose of 44 mcg subcutaneously three times per week.
IM: 30 mcg IM once weekly.
Child- 22 mcg subcutaneously three times per week.
IM: 15 mcg IM every week.

How should Interferon Beta 1A be taken?

It comes as a powder to be mixed into a solution for injection, and also as a prefilled injection syringe to be administered by a healthcare provider either into the large muscle or under the skin.

What are the warnings and precautions for Interferon Beta 1A?

• Caution should be exercised in patients with history of anemia, low platelets, low white blood cells, heart disease, liver disease, depression, psychosis, sleeping disorders, suicidal thoughts, epilepsy, thyroid disease, history of alcohol dependence, any allergy, who are taking other medications, elderly, during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

• Avoid alcohol consumption.

• It may cause flu-like syndrome with symptoms such as headache, fever, chills, sweating, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting and tiredness; if condition becomes severe, consult with your doctor.

What are the side effects of Interferon Beta 1A?

Most Common- Influenza-like symptoms (headache, fatigue, fever, rigors, chest pain, back pain, muscle pain), abdominal pain, depression, elevated liver enzymes level and blood disorder.
Local- Injection site reactions and injection site necrosis.
Central Nervous System - Muscle tightness, poor coordination, epilepsy and drowsiness.
Metabolic- Thyroid disorder.
Gastrointestinal - Abdominal pain and dry mouth.
Liver- Increased level of liver enzymes and abnormal liver function.
Musculo-Skeletal - Muscle/joint/back pain.
Blood- Decrease in blood cells, anemia and swelling of lymph nodes.
Skin- Rash and redness.
Genitourinary- Increased urinary frequency and urinary incontinence.
Eye - Abnormal vision.